Family Residence Visa - Spouse
Spouses of UAE residents or citizens sponsored to live in the country.
The Family Residence Visa - Spouse is a UAE family & partner visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~AED 3,000-5,000 (incl. medical, Emirates ID, deposit)) and processing time (~1-3 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Family Residence Visa - Spouse is for
Spouses of UAE residents or citizens sponsored to live in the country.
Renewable while the sponsor's visa is valid; family sponsorship does not lead to permanent residence or citizenship.
Family Residence Visa - Spouse - eligibility criteria
- Sponsor holds a valid UAE residence visa
- Sponsor minimum salary ~AED 4,000 (or AED 3,000 plus accommodation)
- Attested marriage certificate
- Adequate accommodation (Ejari/tenancy contract)
- Health insurance for the dependant
Family Residence Visa - Spouse cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Family Residence Visa - Spouse (United Arab Emirates) is ~AED 3,000-5,000 (incl. medical, Emirates ID, deposit), with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at UAE Government (u.ae).
| Type | Dependent |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online (ICP/GDRFA) by the resident/citizen sponsor |
| Length of stay | Tied to sponsor's visa (1-3 years, or longer for Golden/Green), renewable |
| Work rights | Allowed with a separate work permit |
| Study rights | Can study |
| Government fee | ~AED 3,000-5,000 (incl. medical, Emirates ID, deposit) |
| Processing time | ~1-3 weeks |
| Route to PR | Renewable while the sponsor's visa is valid; family sponsorship does not lead to permanent residence or citizenship. |
Pathway & next steps
Renewable while the sponsor's visa is valid; family sponsorship does not lead to permanent residence or citizenship.
Many applicants also compare Family Child · Family Residence Visa - Children, Family Parent · Family Residence Visa - Parents, Work Visa · Employment / Work Residence Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which UAE route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Family Residence Visa - Spouse pitfalls we fix
Family Residence Visa - Spouse - frequently asked questions
How much does the Family Residence Visa - Spouse cost?
The Family Residence Visa - Spouse government fee is ~AED 3,000-5,000 (incl. medical, Emirates ID, deposit). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at UAE Government (u.ae) before applying.
How long does the Family Residence Visa - Spouse take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Family Residence Visa - Spouse lead to permanent residence?
Renewable while the sponsor's visa is valid; family sponsorship does not lead to permanent residence or citizenship.
Can I work on the Family Residence Visa - Spouse?
Work rights: Allowed with a separate work permit.
Who can apply for the Family Residence Visa - Spouse?
Spouses of UAE residents or citizens sponsored to live in the country.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United Arab Emirates government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- UAE Government (u.ae) - official United Arab Emirates immigration authority